Is it an argument?

Abha Chatterjee
IIM Indore
Disagreement

To hold a different point of view, which is not the same as argument:

A: Genetic engineering really worries me. I dont think it should be allowed.

B: That doesnt convince me. I think genetic engineering is really exciting.

Description

Give an account of how something is done, or what something is like.

Descriptive detail is not intended to persuade to a point of view

The solution was placed in a test-tube and heated to 35 degrees centigrade.

Small amounts of vapour were emitted. These were odourless. Forty millilitres of
water were added to the solution, which was then heated until it began to
boil. This time, grey steam was emitted. Water droplets gathered on the side of
the test-tube.
Explanation

Can have the structure of an argument. May include statements and

reasons, leading to a final conclusion, and be introduced by signal words,
similar to those used for arguments. However, explanations do not attempt
to persuade the audience to a point of view.
They are used to account for why or how something occurs
Draw out meaning of a theory, argument or other message
Example: It was found many drivers become drowsy when travelling and that
long hours at the wheel were a major cause of accidents. As a result, more
stopping places were set up along motorways to enable drivers to take a
break.
Summaries

Reduced versions of longer messages or texts. Repeats key points. A

conclusion may include a summary of what has been said already.
Example: For this cake, you need equal weights of self raising flour, margarine
and sugar. Add one egg for approximately each 50 grams of flour. Place all
the ingredients in a bowl and beat furiously for three minutes. Blend the
ingredients well. Pour into a greased tin and cook in the oven at 190 degrees
Celsius for 20 mins until it is risen, golden brown coming away from the sides of
the tin. Leave to cool before decorating with jam or cream. Therefore, to
make the cake, simply buy the ingredients, mix well, cook at 190 degrees C,
leave to cool and decorate to taste.